Abstract: A paper tube making and cutting machine includes a fixed rod, a paper tape winding mechanism, an angle measurement unit, a length measurement unit, a cutter, and a drive mechanism. The paper tape winding mechanism wraps or winds at least one paper tape around the fixed rod to form a paper tube. The angle measurement unit measures an angle of the paper tape winding mechanism or the paper tape relative to the fixed rod. The length measurement unit measures a conveyed length of the paper tape. The drive mechanism determines and sets a moving speed of the cutter along the fixed rod according to the angle and the conveyed length, such that the moving speed of the cutter is corresponding to or close to a producing speed or generation rate of the paper tube formed on the fixed rod, in order to prevent the paper tube from pushing a side surface of the cutter or to prevent the cutter from pulling and stretching the paper tube to thereby improve durability of the cutter and the quality of a cut paper tube.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for forming a windowed packaging material. According to the method a web of packaging material is cut in substantially the machine direction along a non-linear path. The cutting action provides two subwebs, each having protruding edge portions and recessed edge portions. The two subwebs are displaced relative to one another so that the protruding edge portions face one another. In this configuration opposing recessed edge portions form windows. The two subwebs are adhered to one another at the opposing protruding edge portions. The resulting windows may be covered with a material that is transparent and/or breathable. A strip of handle material may be applied spanning the respective windows.

Abstract: Systems and methods for folding and stacking fanfold corrugated board material. A system may include a rotatable member (e.g., a wheel) having a number of head pieces disposed thereon. Each head piece has a vacuum setting that can be used to pick up a portion of a length of fanfold and hold it while the rotatable member rotates around its axis and a second blower setting that blows the portion of the length of fanfold that was picked up and rotated around the rotatable member down onto a stack of fanfold. Such a system is capable of forming regular and consistent stacks of fanfold material efficiently and cost effectively without the need for significant human intervention.

Abstract: A device (10) for optically controlling a face (13) of a blank (12) has a vacuum conveyor (20) capable of transporting the blank (12) along a path of travel (15) and which includes a conveyor belt (22) having an apertured structure of which the conveying path follows the path of travel (15) of the blank (12). A suction device (40) is suitable for pressing the blank (12) against the conveyor belt (14). An inspection device (30) inspects the face (13) of the blank (12) during its conveyance by the vacuum conveyor (20). The inspection device is located on the side opposite the vacuum conveyor (20). The suction device (40) delimits three separate successive suction sections (41, 42, 43) along the path of travel (15), including a central suction section (42) that extends opposite the inspection device (30), an upstream suction section (41) and a downstream suction section (43).

Abstract: In an example, a print apparatus includes a controller and a printing unit. The controller may control the printing unit to print a media sheet with at least one indicia indicating an intended location of a fold line, wherein the media sheet is to be folded along the fold line. The controller may be to control the printing unit to print the at least one indicia to provide an offset gauge such that, when the media sheet is folded along a formed fold line, the indicia provides an indication of an offset between the intended location of the fold line and the formed fold line.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided to minimize waste and improve quality and production in web processing operations. The apparatus and methods provide defect detection both before and after application of component patches to a traveling web to create a product. Web defect detection may be provided by way of at least one visual inspection station located upstream from the patch applicator. Patch defect detection may be accomplished by way of a visual inspection station located proximate the patch applicator. If defects are detected in either the traveling web or the component patch prior to patch application, patch application may be prevented until both a satisfactory web and patch are provided. If defects are detected after patch application, the resulting product may be culled. Furthermore, the apparatus may be provided with diagnostic software to warn against extant or imminent machine complications.

Abstract: An arrangement comprising at least one first processing machine arranged to process a web, and a scanning device arranged to scan the web. The arrangement also comprises a computing device configured to: receive image data of the web, analyze the data, and generate a graphic code symbol based on the analysis, and a printing device arranged to print the graphic symbol on the web for marking a web with data relating to features of the web. At least one second processing machine is arranged to further process the web, a reading device is arranged to read the graphic code symbol of the web, and a control device is configured to: receive image data relating to the graphic code symbol, decode the graphic code symbol to retrieve information regarding features of the web, and control the second processing machine to adapt the further processing of the web according to the features.

Abstract: A process for use in an in-mold labeling application utilizes a rolled label sheet having a multiplicity of pre-printed non-adhesive labels and a pre-printed registration mark associated with each of the labels, the process detecting each of the registration marks to alignment the label sheet in a predetermined longitudinal position before labels are cut therefrom, conveying the rolled label sheet forward or backward, cutting one or more labels from the label sheet, forming a controlled loop in the label sheet, detecting each of the registration marks for aligning the label sheet in a position of registration, providing a hold down vacuum for maintaining the label sheet in a position of registration during conveyance to a predetermined label removal position, and releasing the hold down vacuum to permit removal, by an external pick and place device, of one or more of the previously-cut labels.

Abstract: A method and a system for controlling the relative position between a printed pattern and a non-printed pattern, such as for example a pattern of creasing lines or holes, on a running web-shaped material, involves providing the material web with at least one impressed indentation mark with a three-dimensional topographic configuration, at a pre-determined distance from a printed register mark and detecting the marks with a same sensor control system. The controlling method and system is used for the manufacturing of a laminated packaging material, having a printed décor and creased folding lines in register.

Abstract: A packaging material for manufacturing of carton or paperboard based packaging containers by fold-forming is disclosed. The packaging material is obtainable by: providing, in connection with one station, a first part of one or more crease line(s) and a first mark on a moving web of a paperboard or carton based packaging material providing, in connection with a second station, at least a second part of the one or more crease line(s) as well as a second mark, wherein the first and the second mark together form a detectable mark.

Abstract: An apparatus for marking plastic containers, comprising a marking device which applies a marking to the containers and a checking device in the form a temperature-sensitive sensor which checks for the presence of the marking on the container.

Abstract: A personalized package creation system uses an imaging device to capture an image of a barcode. An image capture module decodes the barcode to retrieve data, such as package dimension data and one or more package structural parameters. Based on the package dimensions and the structural parameter, a processing device defines a set of cutting instructions. An automated package generation device applies the cutting instructions and uses a cutting device to creating a package.

Abstract: A thermal seal packaging systems and methods thereof. In one implementation a thermal sealing packaging system has a container transfer unit for transferring a container which is to contain a package item, a measuring unit for measuring the weight of the item that is loaded in the container being transported before it is loaded into the container, a capping film supply unit for a capping film to cover the opening area of the container, an indication means for indicating the measurement data of the measurement unit on the capping film, and a sealing unit for heat-sealing an opening area of the container, into which the package item is loaded, with the capping film, the opening area of the container into which the item is loaded is covered by the capping film on which the corresponding measurement data is indicated.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for bleed control in a packaging layout having a plurality of packaging decoration patterns for making a plurality of packaging boxes. The method includes obtaining bleed lines based on a bleed width from cutting lines of each packaging decoration pattern for each packaging box. The method also includes irradiating light beams toward the packaging layout in four directions substantially perpendicular to each side of the packaging layout to form irradiated bleed line segments. The method further includes calculating a ratio of the projection length of each of irradiated bleed line segments to a respective projection length of a respective bleed line for each packaging decoration pattern in a respective irradiating direction. The method also includes excluding the irradiated bleed line segments for releasing bleed limit if the ratio is less than the threshold, and otherwise releasing bleed limit for the irradiated bleed line facing the four directions.

Abstract: An inspection module for flat, sheet-shaped material made of paper, board or the like, includes an inspection system disposed below a sheet transport plane. The sheets are transported by contacting upper and lower conveying elements of at least one upper and one lower conveying device, at least one of which is connected to a drive. The lower conveying device is divided and is formed of at least two conveying devices with a gap formed therebetween. The inspection system is disposed in the gap. A folder gluer or folding-box gluer having an inspection module is also provided.

Abstract: Described herein is a system for controlling advance of a web material having characteristics of extensibility and comprising successive stretches of web for the production of respective articles, such as sanitary articles. In the passage from a delivery assembly to a treatment station functioning cyclically, the web material is subjected to extension. In order to ensure proper alignment of the individual articles with patterns or decorations provided thereon, the web must be fed to the treatment station in phase with the position reached by the treatment station within its operating cycle. A position sensor enables detection, for each stretch of web, of a real position of operation of the treatment station used for feeding the stretch of web itself to the treatment station with the aforesaid given phase relationship.

Abstract: A packaging laminate includes at least one material layer provided with magnetisable particles. A roller can be configured to apply crease line patterns on the packaging laminate while also applying magnetic fields for magnetising at least some of the magnetisable particles in the packaging laminate. A method of controlling working operations on a packaging laminate in a filling machine involves supplying a packaging laminate to a filling machine, wherein the packaging laminate includes at least one material layer comprising magnetizable particles, with at least some of the magnetizable particles being magnetized particles. The method also involves controlling working operations of the filling machine on the packaging laminate supplied to the filling machine by reading information provided by the magnetized particles.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making bags is disclosed. It includes receiving a film and imparting a plurality of successive seals to the film to form bags. The location of the imparted seals is determined by monitoring at least two sensors. A plurality of perforations are imparted to the film at locations relative to a corresponding seal in response to the determination. The position of a perforator such as rotary position, of a knife may be controlled in response to determining the location. The seals may be formed by a rotary drum, and the perforation by a rotary knife. The sensors may be at the same or different cross machine direction and/or machine direction locations. Startup may include adjusting and recording the position of a prior perforation relative to a prior corresponding seal, and using that recording as a base relative location in another embodiment.

Abstract: A rotary bag machine and method for making bags from a film are disclosed. They include a rotary drum, an accumulation nip, a blanket that positions the film against the drum, and a blanket tensioner located away from the accumulation nip. The drum includes at least one seal bar mounted thereon, and the accumulation nip provides the film to the drum. Various aspects include the accumulation nip being in a fixed position independent of changes of the drum diameter, and/or the path from the accumulation nip to the drum being fixed in length, independent of changes of the drum diameter. An accumulation sensor and a controller that controls the accumulation nip speed and the drum speed in response to the sensor are provided in one embodiment. The speed control is in response to the speed of the film, the rate of change of a function of the input, response history, and/or a setpoint, in various alternatives.

Abstract: A device for processing a flat material web including a sensor for detecting processing marks of the material web is provided. A control unit assigns a first location information to each detected processing mark. Furthermore, the control unit and a processing unit assign a second location information to the time of processing of the processing mark. Both pieces of location information are calculated together by the control unit to determine a correcting value. A processing position of the material web is corrected by the correcting value.

Abstract: For the continuous production of tobacco bags from a sheet-material web (19), the latter is, in the first instance, folded in the region of a folding device (30) to form a continuous web leg (20) corresponding to a pocket of the bag. The web (19) prepared in this way is directed through a sealing subassembly for the purpose of providing transversely directed connecting seams as a lateral boundary to the pockets of successive bags. The sealing subassembly (31) is arranged in an upright position with sealing devices one beneath the other. The web (19) is directed through the sealing subassembly (31) in an upright plane and is largely free of tensioning during the sealing operation.

Abstract: A method for controlling or regulating a folder of a printing press in which at least one fold control mark is printed onto a printed copy or a printing material of the printed copy. The at least one printed fold control mark is measured and at least one fold actual measured value is compared with a corresponding fold setpoint value. The folder is then set automatically as a function of the comparison between the fold actual measured value and the fold setpoint value, such that the fold actual measured value corresponds to the fold setpoint value or is approximated to it in subsequent printed copies.

Abstract: In a method and system for facilitating evaluation of the production accuracy of an envelope machine for producing folded envelopes from sheets of envelope stock, a guide of the same size as the envelope stock has indicia printed thereon corresponding to the locations of desired envelope folding operations. By processing a guide with the machine to form an envelope, the deviation of the actual folding location from the desired folding location can be evaluated by reference to the indicia and corrective machine adjustments can be made. Additional indicia printed on the guide facilitate further evaluation, such as accurate cutting of the envelope stock.

Abstract: A rotary bag machine and method for making bags from a film are disclosed. They include a rotary drum, an accumulation nip, a blanket that positions the film against the drum, and a blanket tensioner located away from the accumulation nip. The drum includes at least one seal bar mounted thereon, and the accumulation nip provides the film to the drum. Various aspects include the accumulation nip being in a fixed position independent of changes of the drum diameter, and/or the path from the accumulation nip to the drum being fixed in length, independent of changes of the drum diameter. An accumulation sensor and a controller that controls the accumulation nip speed and the drum speed in response to the sensor are provided in one embodiment. The speed control is in response to the speed of the film, the rate of change of a function of the input, response history, and/or a setpoint, in various alternatives.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making bags is disclosed. It includes receiving a film and imparting a plurality of successive seals to the film to form bags. The location of the imparted seals is determined by monitoring at least two sensors. A plurality of perforations are imparted to the film at locations relative to a corresponding seal in response to the determination. The position of a perforator such as rotary position, of a knife may be controlled in response to determining the location. The seals may be formed by a rotary drum, and the perforation by a rotary knife. The sensors may be at the same or different cross machine direction and/or machine direction locations. Startup may include adjusting and recording the position of a prior perforation relative to a prior corresponding seal, and using that recording as a base relative location in another embodiment.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling the registration of a first elongated continuous structure (e.g., plastic fastener tape) with attachments (e.g., sliders) or formed features (e.g., slider end stop structures), as it is fed to a sealing station, where it is joined to a second elongated continuous structure (e.g., a web of packaging material) with formed features (e.g., thermoformed troughs). The second elongated continuous structure is intermittently advanced through the machine by the same distance each advancement. During each dwell time, the first elongated continuous structure is processed, i.e., structural features are attached and/or formed. Proper registration of the structural features on the first elongated continuous structure with the second elongated continuous structure is accomplished by adjusting the distance that the unjoined upstream portion of the first elongated continuous structure advances as a function of feedback acquired downstream.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing alarming indications and troubleshooting indications and actions in connection with a web converting manufacturing process such as that used for manufacturing disposable absorbent garments. Some of the disclosed embodiments include relating inspection data, such as product (or process) attribute data, to data from other manufacturing-related systems. Also disclosed are systems and methods for linking product (or process) attribute data obtained during the manufacturing process with one or more data sources including raw material data, process setting data, product quality data, and/or productivity data. Also disclosed are systems and methods for identifying manufacturing set point changes and automatically implementing such changes and automated web steering changes based on data from one or more inspection systems.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for positioning webs of film of a packaging device, according to which goods are introduced into a first web of film in troughs, a second web of film is withdrawn from a supply of web against the resistance of a brake and is placed on the first web of film and interlinked with the same, the advance of the second web downstream of the supply of web being detected by a first optical recognition means. In order to exactly position the two films one on the other, a second recognition means is provided that detects any dimensional errors, thereby changing the position of the first recognition means relative to the direction of conveyance of the second web of film.

Abstract: Form-fill-seal machine includes parts for moving a web of packaging material through the machine according to a process path and parts for transforming the web into filled bags, as well as a zipper strip applicator device for supplying a zipper strip for each bag transverse to the process path, by use of a first and a second conveyor, which in the supply direction of the zipper strip are placed one behind the other and are both provided with parts for retaining the zipper strip during supply, a blade being placed between the first and the second conveyor for cutting the zipper strip and the first and the second conveyor being provided with their own first and second drive.

Abstract: A unit (1) for processing a web (2) of packaging material, and having at least a first station (3) for forming a number of through holes (4) in the web (2); a second station (6) for sealing the holes by applying respective opening devices (7, 8); a feed device (10) for step feeding the web (2) along a path (P) through the first and second station (3, 6); a position sensor (21) generating a presence signal (S) indicating the passage, past the sensor (21), of reference elements (C; 4) carried by the web (2) and bearing a predetermined relationship with the holes (4); a control device (20) for controlling the feed device (10) in response to the presence signal (S); and actuating means (22) cooperating with the second station (6) to move the second station in a direction parallel to said path (P), and activated by the control device (20) to adjust the position of the second station (6) as a function of the presence signal (S).

Abstract: A device for manufacturing packing bags from two packaging films, comprising two transport rollers, each of which pulls a film from a respective feed roll. The two films have marks printed on them at regular intervals. The transport rollers are pressed against corresponding idler rollers which between them preferably form a feed gap for the films. Downstream of the two transport rollers, there is at least one first buffer taking up slack in the assemblage of the two films or accommodating the lengths of the two films to match each other. The device can be used to synchronize two films that are printed with a regular pattern so that the patterns match.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for analyzing the accuracy of a fold (3) which is produced via a folding apparatus for printed products. In the process, with the printed products (1) being shingled, sensors (4) detect the position of the fold with respect to markings (5) which are printed onto the printed product, the folding accuracy and other quantities connected therewith being determined therefrom with the aid of computers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for positioning webs of film of a packaging device, according to which goods are introduced into a first web of film in troughs, a second web of film is withdrawn from a supply of web against the resistance of a brake and is placed on the first web of film and interlinked with the same, the advance of the second web downstream of the supply of web being detected by a first optical recognition means. In order to exactly position the two films one on the other, a second recognition means is provided that detects any dimensional errors, thereby changing the position of the first recognition means relative to the direction of conveyance of the second web of film.

Abstract: An absorbent article including one or more graphics disposed thereon and a method and system for making the same are provided according to the present invention. A picture is taken of the graphic. Based on the picture, a centroid position of the graphic is determined. The centroid position is compared with a target position. Based on the variation of the centroid position with the target position, the processing is adjusted so as to apply the graphic as desired.

Abstract: A method of making packages having a reclosable zipper construction openable and closeable by a slider device. In one embodiment, the method includes utilizing photo eyes to monitor the registration of the film web in respect to the slider device and the placement of side seams. In another embodiment, the method includes utilizing multiple sealing steps to provide seal regions and side seams.

Abstract: A device for manufacturing packing bags from two packaging films, comprising two transport rollers, each of which pulls a film from a respective feed roll. The two films have marks printed on them at regular intervals. The transport rollers are pressed against corresponding idler rollers which between them preferably form a feed gap for the films. Downstream of the two transport rollers, there is at least one first buffer taking up slack in the assemblage of the two films or accommodating the lengths of the two films to match each other. The device can be used to synchronize two films that are printed with a regular pattern so that the patterns match.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for aligning a packing material tube (1) with a treatment station in a packaging machine in which a tube (1) with a circular cross-section is produced from a strip of printed packaging material having embossed lines. Said tube is closed by longitudinally sealing it, filled and shaped in a cross-sealing unit (12) and divided into cuboid packages. The unit (12) is provided with an adjustable lift of stroke so that it intermittently convey the tube (1). It is also provided on diametrical sides with a folding flap (16) that can be pivoted about an axis (15). For feeling the position mark, a sensor is arranged. The aim of the invention is to facilitate a faster termination of the initial phase when the packaging machine is put into operation while at the same time producing less cuttings and to prevent the paper tube from being damaged. To this end, a folding finger (19) is arranged upstream of every folding flap (16).

Abstract: A system and method for aligning two webs which are pulled off respective supply rolls, at least one of which is elastic in nature, the two webs being joined into a multilayered web. The system includes a first deflecting roller for depositing the elastic web on the second web, and second and third deflecting rollers located between the elastic web supply roll and the first deflecting roller. A traversing roller is located between the second and third deflecting rollers so as to form a loop therewith, a position of the traversing roller being adjustable relative to the second and third deflecting rollers for changing the tension on the elastic web. An alignment between marks on the elastic web and markings on the second web is monitored and, when there is a misalignment, an actuating drive coupled to the traversing roller adjusts the position of the traversing roller in order to change the tension on the elastic web and thereby align the marks and the markings as the webs are joined.

Abstract: Two movable members, one on either side of a pre-folded continuous form entering a paper stacking area, are driven according to a determined position of the pre-folded form to push a leading edge of the form to one or another side of the stacking area so that the folds in the form will develop correctly in a stack. Only one of the members is permitted to contact the form at any time, and the members are separated by a sufficient angle so that no position of the members permits both members to contact the form. After directing the first and second sheets of the form, the members return to a home position in which neither member obstructs or interferes with subsequent stacking of the form. The position of the pre-folded form may be determined by a leading edge sensor, by a sheet feed rate sensor, by a fold position sensor, by a fold orientation sensor, by timing from a predetermined position, or by manual input.

Abstract: A device for manufacturing plastic bags from two packaging films, comprising two transport rollers, each of which pulls a film from a respective feed roll. The two films have marks printed on them at regular intervals. The transport rollers are pressed against corresponding idler rollers which between them form a feed gap for the films. Downstream of the feed gap there is a sealing station which connects the two films with each other by means of a transverse seal. Compressed air is blown into the feed gap via a nozzle so that the two films are taut at the sealing station. The device can be used to weld two films that are printed with a regular pattern so that the patterns match.

Abstract: This invention pertains to methods of defining and developing first and second sets of periodic features of a web wherein neither the first set or second sets of features is readily sensed as a reliable registration element against which the location of the other can be registered. The method comprises applying registration images along the web, leading edges of the images being consistent with sufficient acuity and measurable intensity of image, and having suitable outline, to be discerned by a registration sensor. The registration images can thus serve as registration marks for determining positions along the length of the web. The web features are applied periodically along the web, forcing registration of the first set of web features to the registration images. The trim material is removed from the web, defining and developing the cut-outs in registration with ones of the first set of web features.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for blocking a tabbing feature of a mail handling system are provided which preferably include a mail register positioned to register a plurality of pieces of mail being conveyed so that each selected edge of the plurality of pieces of mail aligns along a common path of travel, a mail presence detector positioned downstream from the mail register to detect the presence of each piece of mail as the piece of mail travels along the common path of travel, and a mail identifier positioned downstream from the mail detector and in communication with the mail detector to identify preselected pieces of mail which should not be tabbed. The apparatus also preferably includes a tab controller positioned in communication with the mail detector and the mail identifier to communicate to a tabber of a mail handling system to not tab the preselected pieces of mail.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for maintaining the registration of folds with successive indicia on an advancing paper web is provided. The apparatus includes a control system for detecting the location of the indicia relative to a folding operation and adjusting the web speed to accommodate any mis-registration between the folds and the indicia.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing foil bags, wherein at least two foils are supplied that serve as side foils of the foil bags, the foils are connected to each other and then cut into individual foil bags, wherein possibly existing differences in the amounts of foil materials provided by the at least two foils in the feed direction for a respective foil bag are eliminated by stretching the foil that provides the smaller amount of foil material for a foil bag, and to a bag-producing apparatus for performing the method.

Abstract: An apparatus for the processing and segmenting of a cover-forming laminate web or sheeting structure which is adapted to interconnect a plurality of containers, such as the base members of blister packages each of which is designed to contain a hydrophilic contact lens in a sterile aqueous solution. More specifically disclosed is an apparatus for the imprinting, perforating, slitting and cutting the laminated web structure such that the severed laminate segments constitute printed covering label for an array of such containers, and whereby the laminated web or sheeting segment may be severed along weakening or perforation lines so as to provide a separable packaging arrangement for individual of the containers which are subsequently adhered thereto.

Abstract: Packaging, particularly for a carton of cigarette packs, includes opening structure permitting easy access to one or more of the objects or packs of cigarettes which it contains. The opening structure includes a line of pre-weakened resistance, comprising pre-cuts, either passing completely through the material constituting the packaging or incompletely through the thickness of that material. Individual pre-cuts may be separated by interconnected attachment portions. The line of weakened resistance may partially or completely surround a surface disposed on one, two, or three faces of the packaging. Structure for starting the opening may be provided. A process and a device permitting such packaging are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for blocking a tabbing feature of a mail handling system are provided which preferably include a mail register positioned to register a plurality of pieces of mail being conveyed so that each selected edge of the plurality of pieces of mail aligns along a common path of travel, a mail presence detector positioned downstream from the mail register to detect the presence of each piece of mail as the piece of mail travels along the common path of travel, and a mail identifier positioned downstream from the mail detector and in communication with the mail detector to identify preselected pieces of mail which should not be tabbed. The apparatus also preferably includes a tab controller positioned in communication with the mail detector and the mail identifier to communicate to a tabber of a mail handling system to not tab the preselected pieces of mail.

Abstract: A mail wrapping system apparatus for preparing for mailing postal items includes receiving trays for respectively receiving postal items from companies and an extraction device for extracting from the postal items a multiplicity of same address groups of the postal items, each of the same address groups consisting of ones of the postal items having coinciding ones of destination addresses. A wrapping unit respectively individually assembles each of the same address groups into a bundle and successively wraps each of the same address groups assembled using a wrapping component with a corresponding one of the destination addresses respectively displayed on each of the wrapped same address groups to provide for mailing the wrapped same address groups. A weight sorter then sorts the wrapped same address groups into weight divisions set forth by a fee schedule of a specified delivery agency and the wrapped same address groups are sent with appropriate postage.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a form, fill, and seal packaging machine using preprinted web. The punch apparatus includes a registration sensor, a controller, a punch mechanism, a secondary servo feed drive and a dancer system. The registration sensor reads a registration mark on the web to send a signal to the controller which stops the secondary servo feed drive in a position one panel pitch downstream from the registration sensor. The punch is activated to punch holes along a cut line. The secondary feed drive is activated to advance the punched web to a dancer system. The web is moved from the dancer system to a conventional pouch forming machine by a primary feed drive.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided to minimize waste and improve quality and production in web processing operations. The apparatus and methods provide defect detection both before and after application of component patches to a traveling web to create a product. Web defect detection may be provided by way of at least one visual inspection station located upstream from the patch applicator. Patch defect detection may be accomplished by way of a visual inspection station located proximate the patch applicator. If defects are detected in either the traveling web or the component patch prior to patch application, patch application may be prevented until both a satisfactory web and patch are provided. If defects are detected after patch application, the resulting product may be culled. Furthermore, the apparatus may be provided with diagnostic software to warn against extant or imminent machine complications.